“The culture here is that your colleagues want you to succeed. It’s just one of the things that makes Novozymes a great place to work,” says Kevin.

Kevin, who has a degree in computer science, is a systems analyst in the IT department. He is responsible for everything to do with telecommunications service delivery and keeping the various IT systems running smoothly. He not only works with colleagues in Franklinton, but collaborates closely with departments in other countries.

“For example, we partner with the purchasing department in managing global contracts for computer hardware procurement. The IT work is coordinated through a number of international working groups, and this has really changed the way we work and makes it possible for us to offer a better global service level. I am chairman of the subgroup for hardware, so I speak with colleagues in Denmark, China, France, Brazil and Switzerland on a daily basis,” explains Kevin, who is very satisfied with the opportunities and responsibilities that he has in his day-to-day work.

“When there is an IT problem, we need to be able to move in and solve it immediately. This requires quick decisions, and we have the support of management to make these decisions,” he says.

Social responsibility – not just talk
Every time Novozymes launches a biological product that helps make a difference for the better, Kevin puffs out his chest with pride just a little more, even though as employee in IT, he is not directly involved.

“The IT department is a support function that helps the rest of Novozymes. Although we don’t personally work with enzymes and the products we sell, our job is to make it possible for others to do it, so we certainly take pride in Novozymes' success,” says Kevin.

And this feeling was bolstered when President George W. Bush decided to visit the factory in Franklinton to take a look at the work of developing biofuel.

“It was incredible to get that sort of recognition for the work that we do. And it has also made Novozymes much more well-known here in the area” says Kevin, who was responsible for the communication lines needed to support the large influx of press and security people both before and during the visit.

When Kevin is at family gatherings and asked to talk about his work, the Bush visit is a frequent topic of conversation because the majority of people find his daily IT work rather complicated. Another definite hit that everyone can relate to is Kevin’s role as chairman of the Community Relations Committee at Novozymes in Franklinton. The main task of the group is to decide which charitable projects Novozymes will support locally.

“Novozymes is very passionate about being a socially responsible company, and this is not just talk – we actually walk the talk. And the employees are encouraged to get involved in projects that can make a difference to the local community,” explains Kevin.